Zelda Therapeutics Ltd (ASX:ZLD) (OTCMKTS:ZLDAF) (FRA:G1G) has started recruitment for an autism observational trial in the USA centred on medicinal cannabis treatment.

Fifteen patients have been formally enrolled and first results are expected in the first half of 2019.

The trial, which is seeking to better understand the efficacy of medicinal cannabis treatment in existing patients, is being carried out at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) in the USA.

“Diagnosis rates on the rise”

Zelda and CHOP will work closely with patient advocacy groups during the trial.

The company’s managing director Dr Richard Hopkins said, “We are excited to have this study underway and to be working alongside CHOP to conduct one of the first formal, robust studies of its type in the world.

“With studies showing that around one in 100 people have autism and with diagnosis rates on the rise, we’re focused on addressing a major unmet need